Cape makeover plans get mixed reaction from residents

A battle between homeowners and business owners is underway in Cape Coral over the Streetscape beautification project on Southeast 47th Terrace.

It's supposed to bring in more visitors, but some people say it will do the opposite and drive customers away.

The estimated $12 million project will be a lot more pedestrian friendly.

There will be a roundabout at Vincennes Boulevard and Southeast 47th Terrace, two-wide multiuse paths, and sewer upgrades.

The changes were unveiled Tuesday as part of the Cape Coral Streetscape Project.

"When you're coming over the bridge, I'd like it to look a little nicer," Cape Coral resident Connie Piaggione said.

She has owned a home near the downtown district for over 30 years. She is excited about the plan.

"We are so furious, sick to our stomach at this point," said Kerry Krieg, who is the owner of Merrick Seafood along that road. "I'm not really worried about the beautification. I'm really worried about the functionally of our business at this particular point."

The plans would mean a loss of about 119 parking spots.

Kreig said the city isn't listening to her concerns.

"They're saying 'Oh well I don't know what to tell ya, we are removing all parking!'" she said. "We have no say here. We have no rights in this."

"It would help the business if the area looks nicer, people would want to come to the town," Piaggione said.

The city is planning to make up 70 of those parking spots and is looking to find 40 more, though it may not be as close to the restaurants as they were before.

"All of these businesses rely on those parking spots. Our customers are just going to continue to drive on by," Kreig said.

The cost of the plan is being funded by the Community Redevelopment Agency. Some utility and stormwater improvements will be paid by other funds.